Display device

ABSTRACT

According to one embodiment, a display device includes first and second substrate units, a display function layer, and a drive element. The first substrate unit includes a first substrate, a display unit, and a control circuit unit. The first substrate has a first surface including a display region and a peripheral region. The display unit is provided in the display region, and includes first lines, second lines, switch elements, pixel electrodes, and third lines. The control circuit unit is provided in the peripheral region, and includes a first circuit unit including a third line connection line, and a third line switch. The second substrate unit includes a second substrate and fourth lines. The display function layer is provided between the first and second substrate units. The drive element is provided on the peripheral region. The first circuit unit is partially disposed between the drive element and the first substrate.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is based upon and claims the benefit of priority fromJapanese Patent Application No. 2014-116882, filed on Jun. 5, 2014; theentire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD

Embodiments described herein relate generally to a display device.

BACKGROUND

A display device that uses a liquid crystal, organic EL, etc., has beendeveloped. Other than a display operation, for example, there are caseswhere a sense operation of a touch input is performed in the displaydevice. A compact device is desirable for such a display device.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to one embodiment, a display device includes a first substrateunit, a second substrate unit, a display function layer, and a driveelement. The first substrate unit includes a first substrate, a displayunit, and a control circuit unit. The first substrate has a firstsurface including a display region and a peripheral region. The displayunit is provided in the display region. The display unit includes aplurality of first lines extending in a first direction and beingarranged in a second direction intersecting the first direction, thefirst direction intersecting a direction from the peripheral regiontoward the display region, a plurality of second lines extending in thesecond direction and being arranged in the first direction, a pluralityof switch elements, each of the plurality of switch elements beingelectrically connected to one of the plurality of first lines and one ofthe plurality of second lines, a plurality of pixel electrodeselectrically connected respectively to the plurality of switch elements,and a plurality of third lines extending in the second direction andbeing arranged in the first direction. The control circuit unit isprovided in the peripheral region. The control circuit unit includes afirst circuit unit. The first circuit unit includes a third lineconnection line electrically connected to at least one of the pluralityof third lines, and a third line switch electrically connected to thethird line connection line. The second substrate unit includes a secondsubstrate and a plurality of fourth lines. The second substrate has asecond surface and a third surface. The second surface opposes the firstsurface. The third surface is on a side opposite to the second surface.The plurality of fourth lines is provided at the third surface, extendsin a third direction, and is arranged in a fourth direction. The thirddirection is parallel to the third surface and intersects the seconddirection. The fourth direction is parallel to the third surface andintersects the third direction. The display function layer is providedbetween the first substrate unit and the second substrate unit, andperforms an optical operation based on an electrical signal applied tothe plurality of pixel electrodes. The drive element is provided on theperipheral region, and is capable of outputting the electrical signal.At least a portion of the first circuit unit is disposed between thedrive element and the first substrate.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A to FIG. 1C are schematic plan views illustrating a displaydevice according to a first embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the displaydevice according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the display deviceaccording to the first embodiment;

FIG. 4 is a schematic view illustrating the display device according tothe first embodiment;

FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the displaydevice according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 6 is a schematic view illustrating the display device according tothe first embodiment;

FIG. 7 is a schematic view illustrating the display device according tothe first embodiment;

FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B are schematic views illustrating another displaydevice according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B are schematic views illustrating another displaydevice according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B are schematic views illustrating another displaydevice according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 11 is a schematic view illustrating the display device according tothe first embodiment;

FIG. 12 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a portion of adisplay device according to a second embodiment; and

FIG. 13 is a schematic perspective view illustrating an electronicdevice according to a third embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to thedrawings.

The disclosure is but an example; and appropriate modifications withinthe spirit of the invention will be readily apparent to one skilled inthe art and naturally are within the scope of the invention. Moreover,although the widths, thicknesses, configurations, etc., of components inthe drawings may be illustrated schematically compared to the actualembodiments for better clarification of description, these are merelyexamples and do not limit the construction of the invention.

Further, in the specification and the drawings, components similar tothose described in regard to a drawing thereinabove are marked with likereference numerals, and a detailed description may be omitted asappropriate.

First Embodiment

FIG. 1A to FIG. 1C are schematic plan views illustrating a displaydevice according to a first embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 1A, the display device 110 according to the embodimentincludes a first substrate unit 10 u, a second substrate unit 20 u, anda drive element 71.

FIG. 1B illustrates the first substrate unit 10 u. The first substrateunit 10 u includes a first substrate 10, a display unit DP, and acontrol circuit unit 75. The first substrate 10 has a first surface 10a. A display region 10D and a peripheral region 10P are provided on thefirst surface 10 a side of the first substrate 10. The display unit DPis provided on the display region 10D. The control circuit unit 75 isprovided on the peripheral region 10P.

As described below, various lines, switch elements, and pixel electrodesare provided in the display unit DP. An example of the display unit DPis described below.

For example, one direction intersecting a direction from the peripheralregion 10P toward the display region 10D is taken as a first direction.The first direction is parallel to the first surface 10 a. The directiondescribed above from the peripheral region 10P toward the display region10D is taken as a second direction. A direction perpendicular to thefirst direction and the second direction is taken as a fifth direction.

The first direction is taken as an X-axis direction. A directionparallel to the first surface 10 a and perpendicular to the X-axisdirection is taken as a Y-axis direction. A direction perpendicular tothe X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction is taken as a Z-axisdirection. As described below, the Y-axis direction corresponds to thesecond direction; and the Z-axis direction corresponds to the fifthdirection.

A display is performed in the display region 10D. In the example shownin FIG. 1B, the first substrate unit 10 u further includes a first gatedriver 76 a and a second gate driver 76 b. The display region 10D isdisposed in the region between the first gate driver 76 a and the secondgate driver 76 b. For example, the first gate driver 76 a is separatedfrom the second gate driver 76 b in the first direction.

The first substrate unit 10 u further includes a first substrateconnector unit 78 a. The first substrate connector unit 78 a is providedin the peripheral region 10P of the first substrate 10. For example, thefirst substrate connector unit 78 a is electrically connected to atleast one of the control circuit unit 75 or the gate drivers.

In the embodiment, the state of being electrically connected includesthe state in which two conductors are in direct contact, and the statein which a current flows between two conductors that have anotherconductor inserted therebetween. Further, the state of beingelectrically connected includes the state in which it is possible toform a state in which a current flow between two conductors that have anelement (e.g., a switch element or the like) inserted therebetween.

FIG. 1C illustrates the second substrate unit 20 u. The second substrateunit 20 u includes a second substrate 20 and multiple lines (fourthlines L4 described below). The second substrate 20 has a second surface20 a (referring to FIG. 2) and a third surface 20 b. The second surface20 a is the surface that opposes the first surface 10 a. The thirdsurface 20 b is the surface on the side opposite to the second surface20 a. The fourth lines L4 are provided in the third surface 20 b. Asdescribed below, for example, the fourth lines L4 are used to sense atouch input. A second substrate connector unit 78 b is provided in thesecond substrate 20. The second substrate connector unit 78 b iselectrically connected to the fourth lines L4. In the example shown inFIG. 1A, the display device 110 further includes a first circuitsubstrate 81, a second circuit substrate 82, and a sensor 83 (e.g., atouch sensing IC). The first circuit substrate 81 is electricallyconnected to the first substrate connector unit 78 a. The second circuitsubstrate 82 is electrically connected to the second substrate connectorunit 78 b. In the example shown in FIG. 1A, the sensor 83 is mounted onthe second circuit substrate 82. For example, FPCs (Flexible PrintedCircuits) are used as these circuit substrates. The sensor 83 and thedrive element 71 can operate synchronously with each other.

As shown in FIG. 1A, the drive element 71 is provided on the peripheralregion 10P of the first substrate 10. For example, the drive element 71and the second substrate unit 20 u do not overlap in the plane, evenwhen the first surface 10 a and the second substrate unit 20 u overlapin the plane.

FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the displaydevice according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 2 illustrates a line A1-A2 cross section of FIG. 1A.

As shown in FIG. 2, the drive element 71 is provided on the peripheralregion 10P of the first substrate 10. At least a portion of the controlcircuit unit 75 is disposed between the drive element 71 and the firstsubstrate 10. In other words, the drive element 71 is disposed on atleast a portion of the control circuit unit 75.

Thereby, the surface area of the peripheral region 10P can be smallcompared to the case where the control circuit unit 75 and the driveelement 71 do not overlap each other. Thereby, the device can becompact.

For example, the drive element 71 includes a first output electrode 71 aand an input electrode 71 i. The first output electrode 71 a and theinput electrode 71 i are provided on the surface of the drive element 71on the first substrate 10 side. For example, the first output electrode71 a outputs an electrical signal for displaying the image to the driveelement 71.

On the other hand, the first substrate unit 10 u includes a connectionelectrode 10 ca and an input connection electrode 10 ci. The connectionelectrode 10 ca and the input connection electrode 10 ci are provided inthe peripheral region 10P.

The display device 110 further includes a first connection member 72 aand an input connection member 72 i. The first connection member 72 a isdisposed between the first output electrode 71 a and the connectionelectrode 10 ca and electrically connects the first output electrode 71a and the connection electrode 10 ca. The input connection member 72 iis disposed between the input electrode 71 i and the input connectionelectrode 10 ci and electrically connects the input electrode 71 i andthe input connection electrode 10 ci.

For example, a glass substrate may be used as the first substrate 10.For example, the drive element 71 is mounted on the first substrate 10by a COG (Chip on Glass) method.

In the example shown in FIG. 2, the first substrate connector unit 78 aand the first circuit substrate 81 are connected by a connectingconductive member 81 c.

As illustrated in FIG. 2, a display function layer 30 is disposedbetween the first substrate unit 10 u and the second substrate unit 20u. In the example, a sealing unit 37 is provided between the firstsubstrate unit 10 u and the second substrate unit 20 u. For example, thesealing unit 37 bonds the first substrate 10 and the second substrate20. In the example, a portion of the control circuit unit 75 contactsthe sealing unit 37. Thereby, the surface area of the regions (e.g., theperipheral region 10P) other than the display region 10D can be reduced.

An example of the various lines, switch elements, and pixel electrodesprovided in the display unit DP will now be described. FIG. 3 is aschematic perspective view illustrating the display device according tothe first embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 3, the display device 110 according to the embodimentincludes multiple first lines L1 (e.g., gate lines GL), multiple secondlines L2 (e.g., signal lines SL), and multiple third lines L3 (e.g.,common lines CL). The first lines L1, the second lines L2, and the thirdlines L3 are included in the display unit DP. The multiple fourth linesL4 also are illustrated in FIG. 3.

Each of the multiple first lines L1 extends in the first direction. Asdescribed above, the first direction is the direction intersecting thedirection from the peripheral region 10P toward the display region 10D.The multiple first lines L1 are arranged in the second direction. Thesecond direction intersects the first direction. In the example, thesecond direction is perpendicular to the first direction. The firstdirection is parallel to the X-axis direction; and the second directionis parallel to the Y-axis direction.

Each of the multiple second lines L2 extends in the second direction.The multiple second lines L2 are arranged in the first direction.

Each of the multiple third lines L3 extends in the second direction. Themultiple third lines L3 are arranged in the first direction.

The multiple fourth lines L4 are separated from the first to third linesL1 to L3 in a direction (the Z-axis direction, i.e., the fifthdirection) perpendicular to the X-Y plane. Each of the multiple fourthlines L4 extends in a third direction. The third direction is parallelto the X-Y plane (e.g., parallel to the third surface 20 b). The thirddirection intersects the second direction. The multiple fourth lines L4are arranged in the fourth direction. The fourth direction is parallelto the X-Y plane and intersects the third direction. In the example, thethird direction is parallel to the X-axis direction; and the fourthdirection is parallel to the Y-axis direction.

As described above, for example, the multiple first lines L1 are thegate lines GL. The multiple gate lines GL include, for example, a firstgate line GL1, a second gate line GL2, and an nth gate line GLn. Thenumber of gate lines GL is n. n is an integer not less than 2. Forexample, n is 2560. In the embodiment, n is arbitrary.

As described above, for example, the multiple second lines L2 are thesignal lines SL. The multiple signal lines SL include, for example, afirst signal line SL1, a second signal line SL2, and an mth signal lineSLm. The number of signal lines SL is m. m is an integer not less than2. For example, in the case where the set of a red pixel, a green pixel,and a blue pixel is used as one component, the number of components is1600.

In the case where the number of components is 1600, m is 1600×3=4800.The signal lines SL are provided according to the number of multiplepixels arranged along the first direction. In the embodiment, m isarbitrary. As described above, for example, the multiple third lines L3are the common lines CL. The multiple common lines CL include, forexample, a first common line CL1, a second common line CL2, and an Nthcommon line CLN. The number of common lines CL is N. N is an integer notless than 2. In the embodiment, N is arbitrary.

As described above, for example, the multiple fourth lines L4 are senselines RL. The multiple sense lines RL include, for example, a firstsense line RL1, a second sense line RL2, and an Mth sense line RLM. Thenumber of sense lines RL is M. M is an integer not less than 2. In theembodiment, M is arbitrary.

In the example, the signal lines SL and the common lines CL are disposedbetween the gate lines GL and the sense lines RL. In the embodiment,various modifications are possible for the arrangement of these lines inthe fifth direction. In other words, it is possible to arbitrarilychange the vertical relationship between the gate lines GL, the signallines SL, the common lines CL, and the sense lines RL.

As described below, the display is performed using the multiple gatelines GL, the multiple signal lines SL, and the multiple common linesCL. In the example, for example, an input (e.g., a touch input) isperformed using the multiple common lines CL and the multiple senselines RL. In the embodiment, the sense lines RL may be omitted in thecase where the input operation is not performed.

As described below, the control circuit unit 75 recited above iselectrically connected to at least one of the multiple second lines L2(the signal lines SL) and at least one of the multiple third lines (thecommon lines CL). As shown in FIG. 3, for example, the number m ofsignal lines SL is larger than the number N of common lines CL. Bysetting the number of signal lines SL to be large, a high definitiondisplay can be implemented. On the other hand, there are many caseswhere the resolution of the input may be lower than the resolution ofthe display. Therefore, the number of common lines CL can be smallerthan the number of gate lines GL. By setting the number of common linesCL to be small, the time necessary for the sense operation can beshorter; and a display having no incongruity or low incongruity becomespossible.

For example, the multiple signal lines SL are divided into multiplegroups. For example, the multiple signal lines SL include first to kthgroups, etc. Each of the multiple groups includes multiplemutually-adjacent signal lines SL. For example, the number of signallines SL included in one group is j. j is an integer not less than 2.

For example, each of the groups of the multiple signal lines SL and onecommon line CL (i.e., the multiple common lines CL respectively) overlapwhen projected onto the X-Y plane.

FIG. 4 is a schematic view illustrating the display device according tothe first embodiment.

As illustrated in FIG. 4, multiple switch elements 11, multiple pixelelectrodes Px, and a display function layer 30 are provided in thedisplay device 110. The switch elements 11 and the pixel electrodes Pxare included in the display unit DP.

Each of the multiple switch elements 11 is electrically connected to oneof the multiple first lines L1 (the gate lines GL) and one of themultiple second lines L2 (the signal lines SL).

For example, the switch element 11 includes a gate 11 g and asemiconductor layer 12. The semiconductor layer 12 includes a firstportion 12 a and a second portion 12 b. The gate 11 g is electricallyconnected to one of the multiple gate lines GL. The first portion 12 aof the semiconductor layer 12 is electrically connected to one of themultiple signal lines SL.

The multiple pixel electrodes Px are electrically connected respectivelyto the multiple switch elements 11. For example, one pixel electrode Pxis electrically connected to the second portion 12 b of thesemiconductor layer 12 of the switch element 11.

The display function layer 30 performs an optical operation based on anelectrical signal applied to the multiple pixel electrodes Px. Theoptical operation includes at least one of a light emission or a changeof an optical characteristic. As described below, for example, thedisplay function layer 30 is provided between the multiple pixelelectrodes Px and the multiple sense lines RL. The drive element 71 iscapable of outputting the electrical signal applied to the pixelelectrodes Px to the control circuit unit 75. The electrical signal issupplied to the pixel electrodes Px via the drive element 71.

In the case where a liquid crystal layer is used as the display functionlayer 30, the optical operation includes a change of an opticalcharacteristic. The optical characteristic includes, for example, atleast one of birefringence, optical rotatory properties, scatteringproperties, light reflectance, or light absorptance. For example, theelectrical signal that is applied to the pixel electrodes Px generatesan electric field between the pixel electrodes Px and the common linesCL or between the pixel electrodes Px and common electrodes connected tothe common lines CL. The liquid crystal alignment of the displayfunction layer 30 (the liquid crystal layer) changes due to the electricfield that is generated; and the effective birefringence changes. Atleast one of optical rotatory properties, scattering properties, lightreflectance, or light absorptance may change. Although a liquid crystallayer is used as the display function layer 30 in the display device 110shown in FIG. 4, a light emitting layer may be used instead of theliquid crystal layer in the display device 110.

In the case where a light emitting layer (e.g., an organic lightemitting layer) is used as the display function layer 30, the opticaloperation includes light emission (the emission of light). In the casewhere organic electro luminescence is used as an example of the organiclight emitting layer, electrons move from one electrode; and holes movefrom the other electrode. The light emission is produced by theelectrons and the holes recombining in the light emitting layer. Also,it is possible to use an inorganic light emitting layer instead of theorganic light emitting layer as the light emitting layer.

In other words, the display function layer 30 performs an opticaloperation of at least one of a light emission or a change of an opticalcharacteristic.

In the case where, for example, a liquid crystal layer is used as thedisplay function layer 30, the display function layer 30 is used as aload capacitance. In the example shown in FIG. 4, a storage capacitor Csis provided in parallel with the display function layer 30. The storagecapacitor Cs may be provided as necessary and may be omitted. Multiplepixels 35 are provided in the display device 110.

At least one switch element 11 and at least one pixel electrode Px areprovided in each of the multiple pixels 35. In other words, the multipleswitch elements 11 are provided respectively in the multiple pixels 35.The multiple pixel electrodes Px are provided respectively in themultiple pixels 35.

As illustrated in FIG. 4, a drive unit 60 is provided in the displaydevice 110.

The drive unit 60 includes, for example, a first drive circuit 61, asecond drive circuit 62, and a controller 63. The first drive circuit 61is electrically connected to the multiple gate lines GL. The seconddrive circuit 62 is electrically connected to the multiple signal linesSL and the multiple common lines CL. The controller 63 is electricallyconnected to the first drive circuit 61 and the second drive circuit 62.The appropriate signal processing of the electrical signals acquired bythe controller 63 is performed. The electrical signals for which thesignal processing is performed are supplied to the first drive circuit61 and the second drive circuit 62. The electrical signals include theimage signal.

For example, the following is performed in the display operation. Theimage signal is supplied to the multiple second lines L2 (the signallines SL) while setting one of the multiple first lines L1 (the gatelines GL) to a select potential.

For example, the first lines L1 include a selection gate line GLs and anon-selection gate line GLn. The selection gate line GLs is set to theselect potential. The non-selection gate line GLn is set to an unselectpotential that is different from the select potential.

The multiple switch elements 11 include a selection switch element 11 sand a non-selection switch element 11 n.

The selection switch element 11 s is electrically connected to the firstline L1 (the selection gate line GLs) set to the select potential. Thenon-selection switch element 11 n is electrically connected to the firstline L1 (the non-selection gate line GLn) set to the unselect potential.

The multiple pixel electrodes Px include a selection pixel electrodePxsl and a non-selection pixel electrode Pxns. The selection pixelelectrode Pxsl is electrically connected to the selection switch element11 s. The non-selection pixel electrode Pxns is electrically connectedto the non-selection switch element 11 n.

In the display operation, the selection pixel electrode Pxsl (the pixelelectrode Px of the multiple pixel electrodes Px electrically connectedto the selection switch element 11 s) is set to the image potentialbased on the image signal via the selection switch element 11 s (theswitch element 11 of the multiple switch elements 11 electricallyconnected to the first line L1 set to the select potential).

On the other hand, at least one of the multiple third lines L3 (thecommon lines CL) is set to a prescribed potential (e.g., a displaycounter potential VCOMDC described below).

Thereby, the selection pixel electrode Pxsl is set to the desiredpotential. For example, the optical operation is performed in thedisplay function layer 30 according to the electric field (the voltage)generated between the selection pixel electrode Pxsl and the common lineCL; and the desired light is obtained. The desired display is obtainedby sequentially selecting the multiple first lines L1.

Thus, the optical operation of the display function layer 30 (e.g., theliquid crystal layer) at the multiple pixels 35 is controlled by thegate lines GL, the signal lines SL, the switch elements 11, and thepixel electrodes Px. In the display operation, for example, the commonlines CL are utilized as counter electrodes of the pixel electrodes Px.In other words, the potential of each of the multiple pixel electrodesPx is controlled by the electrical signal being supplied to the pixelelectrode Px via the switch element 11. The display is performed by thealignment of the liquid crystal changing due to the electric fieldgenerated by the pixel electrodes Px and the common lines CL.

For example, the first gate driver 76 a and the second gate driver 76 billustrated in FIG. 1B are included in the first drive circuit 61. Forexample, the drive element 71 and the control circuit unit 75illustrated in FIG. 2 are included in the second drive circuit 62.

A sense circuit 65 may be further provided in the drive unit 60. Thesense circuit 65 is electrically connected to the sense lines RL. In thesense operation, for example, the change of the capacitance that isformed between each of the multiple common lines CL and each of themultiple sense lines RL is sensed by the second drive circuit 62 and thesense circuit 65. For example, the sensor 83 illustrated in FIG. 1A isincluded in the sense circuit 65.

For example, the touch input to the display device 110 is sensed by themultiple sense lines RL and the multiple common lines CL. In the senseoperation, for example, an input member (e.g., an input pen, etc.), afinger of a viewer (a user) of the display device 110, etc., is incontact with or proximal to the display device 110. The electrostaticcapacitance that is formed by the sense lines RL and the common lines CLchanges due to the contact or proximity recited above. The touch inputis sensed by sensing the change of the electrostatic capacitance. Forexample, electrostatic-capacitance type sensing is performed. It can besaid that such a display device 110 is a display device that has aninput function.

In the sense operation (a second operation OP2 described below), thesensor 83 senses the current flowing between at least one of themultiple fourth lines L4 and at least one of the multiple third linesL3. For example, the sensor 83 senses the change of the current based onthe change of the capacitance between the at least one of the multiplefourth lines L4 and the at least one of the multiple third lines L3 dueto an object proximal to the at least one of the multiple fourth linesL4. Thereby, for example, the sensing of the touch input is performed.

In the embodiment, the common lines CL (the third lines L3) are used ascounter electrodes for the sensing while being used as counterelectrodes for the display.

As illustrated in FIG. 4, the multiple pixels 35 include a first colorpixel 35 a and a second color pixel 35 b. For example, the multiplepixel electrodes Px include a first color pixel electrode Pxa for thefirst color and a second color pixel electrode Pxb for the second color.The second color is different from the first color. The multiple signallines SL include a first color line SLa and a second color line SLb. Thefirst color line SLa is electrically connected to the first color pixelelectrode Pxa via one of the multiple switch elements 11.

The second color line SLb is electrically connected to the second colorpixel electrode Pxb via one other of the multiple switch elements 11.Further, a third color pixel and a third pixel electrode may beprovided. Accordingly, a third color line may be provided. Pixels 35having four or more colors may be provided. An example of the case wherepixels 35 of three colors are provided will now be described.

FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the displaydevice according to the first embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 5, the first substrate unit 10 u, the second substrateunit 20 u, and the display function layer 30 are provided in the displaydevice 110. The multiple pixels 35 are provided in the display device110. FIG. 5 illustrates a portion of one pixel 35.

For example, an array substrate is used as the first substrate unit 10u. For example, the first substrate 10, the gate lines GL (the firstlines L1), the switch elements 11, the signal lines SL (the second linesL2), the common lines CL (the third lines L3), and the pixel electrodesPx are provided in the first substrate unit 10 u.

For example, the gate lines GL and the signal lines SL extend in the X-Yplane. The first substrate unit 10 u extends in the X-Y plane.

The first substrate 10 shown in FIG. 5 is light-transmissive. Forexample, glass or a resin is used as the first substrate 10. The gatelines GL are provided on the first substrate 10.

In the embodiment, a thin film transistor (TFT) is used as the switchelement 11. The switch element 11 includes the semiconductor layer 12.The semiconductor layer 12 includes the first portion 12 a, the secondportion 12 b, and a third portion 12 c. The second portion 12 b isseparated from the first portion 12 a in the X-Y plane. The thirdportion 12 c is disposed between the first portion 12 a and the secondportion 12 b. The first portion 12 a is used as one of the source ordrain of the switch element 11. The second portion 12 b is used as theother of the source or drain. The third portion 12 c is used as thechannel portion of the switch element 11.

The switch element 11 further includes the gate 11 g and a gateinsulator film 11 i. The gate insulator film 11 i is provided betweenthe third portion 12 c and the gate 11 g. In FIG. 5, the third portion12 c is disposed on the gate 11 g. In the example, the switch element 11has a bottom-gate structure. In the embodiment, the switch element 11may have a top-gate structure.

A first metal layer is used as at least one of the gate line GL or thegate 11 g. The first metal layer includes, for example, at least one ofMo (molybdenum), MoW (molybdenum-tungsten), Al (aluminum), or Cu(copper). For example, the first metal layer includes Mo. The gate lineGL and the gate 11 g may be formed using different materials or may beformed in the same layer using the same material. In the case where thegate line

GL and the gate 11 g are formed using the different materials, aconnection region is provided; and the gate line GL and the gate 11 gare connected electrically.

The semiconductor layer 12 includes, for example, at least one ofpolysilicon, amorphous silicon, or crystalline silicon. An oxidesemiconductor may be used as the semiconductor layer 12. For example,the semiconductor layer 12 may include an oxide including at least oneof indium (In), gallium (Ga), or zinc (Zn).

The signal line SL is electrically connected to the first portion 12 a.The signal line SL shown in FIG. 5 includes a first connector 15 a inthe region on an inter-layer insulating layer 13, and a first connectingconductive unit 15 c in the region inside the inter-layer insulatinglayer 13. In FIG. 5, the first connecting conductive unit 15 c which isa portion of the signal line SL is electrically connected to the firstportion 12 a.

On the other hand, a draw-out electrode that is connected to the pixelelectrode Px is provided on the second portion 12 b. The draw-outelectrode includes a second connector 15 b in the region on theinter-layer insulating layer 13, and a second connecting conductive unit15 d in the region inside the inter-layer insulating layer 13. In FIG.5, the second connecting conductive unit 15 d is electrically connectedto the second portion 12 b.

A second metal layer is used as the first connector 15 a and the firstconnecting conductive unit 15 c which are portions of the signal line SLand as the second connector 15 b and the second connecting conductiveunit 15 d which are portions of the draw-out electrode. The second metallayer includes, for example, at least one of Al (aluminum) or Cu(copper). For example, the second metal layer includes Al.

The inter-layer insulating layer 13 is provided between the firstconnector 15 a of the signal line SL and the semiconductor layer 12 andbetween the second connector 15 b of the draw-out electrode and thesemiconductor layer 12. As described above, the first connectingconductive unit 15 c and the second connecting conductive unit 15 d areprovided inside the inter-layer insulating layer 13.

The inter-layer insulating layer 13 includes, for example, an oxide, anitride, etc. The inter-layer insulating layer 13 includes, for example,at least one of silicon oxide, silicon nitride, or silicon oxynitride.

In FIG. 5, the common line CL is provided on the second metal layer ofthe signal line SL, etc. A first insulating layer I1 is provided betweenthe common line CL and the signal line SL. The first insulating layer I1is provided between the multiple signal lines SL and the multiple commonlines CL.

For example, the first insulating layer I1 functions as a planarizationlayer. For example, the first insulating layer I1 includes an organicmaterial. The first insulating layer I1 includes, for example, at leastone of an acrylic resin or a polyimide resin. Good flatness is obtainedby using the organic material as the first insulating layer I1. Insteadof the organic material, an inorganic material may be used as the firstinsulating layer I1.

The pixel electrode Px is provided on the common line CL. In FIG. 5, thepixel electrode Px has a comb-shaped configuration; and the pixelelectrode Px includes multiple portions Pxs having band configurations.The multiple portions Pxs are separated from each other in the X-Yplane. The pixel electrode Px is electrically connected to the secondconnector 15 b. In FIG. 5, a third connecting conductive unit 17 whichis a portion of the pixel electrode Px is electrically connected to thesecond connector 15 b.

For example, a light-transmissive conductive layer is used as at leastone of the common line CL or the pixel electrode Px. For example, atleast one of the common line CL or the pixel electrode Px includes anoxide including at least one element selected from the group consistingof In, Sn, Zn, and Ti. The common line CL and the pixel electrode Pxinclude, for example, ITO (Indium Tin Oxide), etc. For example, thinmetal layers that are light-transmissive may be used as the common lineCL and the pixel electrode Px. As described below, a supplemental linemay be provided for the common line CL.

A second insulating layer 12 is provided between the pixel electrode Pxand the common line CL. In FIG. 5, at least a portion of the multiplecommon lines CL is disposed between at least a portion of one of themultiple pixel electrodes Px and at least a portion of one of themultiple signal lines SL. Also, the second insulating layer 12 isdisposed between the at least a portion of the multiple common lines CLrecited above and the at least a portion of the one of the multiplepixel electrodes Px recited above.

The second insulating layer 12 may include, for example, the samematerial as the first insulating layer I1; or a different material maybe used. The material of the second insulating layer 12 is arbitrary.

In FIG. 5, a first alignment film 18 is provided on the pixel electrodePx.

The second substrate unit 20 u is separated from the first substrateunit 10 u in the Z-axis direction. In FIG. 5, the second substrate unit20 u includes the second substrate 20, a color filter layer 25, a secondalignment film 28, and the sense lines RL (the fourth lines L4). Thesense lines RL are separated from the switch elements 11 and themultiple pixel electrodes Px. The second substrate 20 is providedbetween the sense lines RL and the first substrate unit 10 u. The colorfilter layer 25 is provided between the second substrate 20 and thefirst substrate unit 10 u. The second alignment film 28 is providedbetween the color filter layer 25 and the first substrate unit 10 u.

In FIG. 5, the second substrate 20 is light-transmissive. The secondsubstrate 20 includes, for example, glass or a resin.

For example, a light-transmissive conductive material is used as thematerial of the sense line RL. The sense line RL includes an oxide(e.g., the ITO, etc.) including at least one element selected from thegroup consisting of In, Sn, Zn, and Ti, etc. A thin metal layer that islight-transmissive may be used as the sense line RL. A metal line may beused as the sense line RL. In the case where the metal line is used asthe sense line RL, it is favorable for the metal line to be as fine aspossible to not be visible. Also, in the case where the metal line isused as the sense line RL, it is necessary to suppress moiré that occursdue to the relationship of the arrangement between the metal lines, thearrangement between the metal line and the color filter layer 25described below, and the arrangement between the metal line and thepixels. To suppress the moiré, the metal lines may have a configurationin which metal pieces having a prescribed length are disposed with aprescribed angle between mutually-adjacent metal pieces.

The color filter layer 25 includes, for example, a red colored layer, agreen colored layer, a blue colored layer, etc. In the example, alight-shielding layer BM that shields the TFT is formed in the samelayer as the color filter layer 25. The red colored layer, the greencolored layer, and the blue colored layer are disposed to respectivelycorrespond to the multiple pixels 35. The color filter layer 25 may havefour or more colors. In the embodiment, the color filter layer 25 may beomitted. The color filter layer 25 may be provided in the firstsubstrate unit 10 u.

The first alignment film 18 and the second alignment film 28 include,for example, polyimide, etc. Alignment processing (e.g., rubbing, etc.)of these alignment films is performed as necessary. Or, aphoto-alignment film may be used as the alignment film. For example, aphoto-alignment film that is formed from a polyimide precursor may beused as such a photo-alignment film.

The display function layer 30 is provided between the first substrateunit 10 u and the second substrate unit 20 u. The display function layer30 is disposed between the multiple pixel electrodes Px and the multiplesense lines RL. For example, the display function layer 30 is disposedbetween the first alignment film 18 and the second alignment film 28.

A first polarizing layer 51 and a second polarizing layer 52 areprovided in FIG. 5. The first substrate unit 10 u is disposed betweenthe first polarizing layer 51 and the second polarizing layer 52. Thesecond substrate unit 20 u is disposed between the first substrate unit10 u and the second polarizing layer 52.

A backlight unit 55 is further provided in FIG. 5. The first polarizinglayer 51, the first substrate unit 10 u, the display function layer 30,and the second substrate unit 20 u are disposed between the backlightunit 55 and the second polarizing layer 52. The backlight unit 55 emitslight. The light passes through the first polarizing layer 51, the firstsubstrate unit 10 u, the display function layer 30, the second substrateunit 20 u, and the second polarizing layer 52 and is emitted outside thedisplay device 110. The light that is modulated by the display functionlayer 30 is visible as an image.

In FIG. 5, the pixel electrode Px includes the multiple portions Pxs. A“lateral electric field” is generated between the pixel electrode Px andthe common line CL. The lateral electric field is an electric fieldhaving a component parallel to the X-Y plane. The director (thelong-axis direction of the liquid crystal molecules) of the liquidcrystal molecules of the display function layer 30 (the liquid crystallayer) is caused to change in the X-Y plane by the lateral electricfield. For example, at least one of birefringence or optical rotatoryproperties changes due to the change of the direction of the director.In other words, a change of an optical characteristic occurs. The changeof the optical characteristic is converted to a change of thetransmittance by using a polarizing layer.

The transmittance of the light emitted from the backlight unit 55changes due to the change of the optical characteristic. Thetransmittance of the light changes, that is, the brightness changes,according to the electrical signal (the image signal) applied to thepixel electrode Px. The light of which the brightness has changed isemitted from an upper surface Uf of the display device 110. Thereby, thedisplay is performed.

On the other hand, as described above, the touch input to the uppersurface Uf of the display device 110 is sensed by the multiple senselines RL and the multiple common lines CL from the change of theelectrostatic capacitance that is formed. The touch input may be sensedby sensing at least one of an electric field formed between the multiplesense lines RL and a finger of a viewer, an input member, etc., or anelectric field formed between the multiple common lines CL and thefinger of the viewer, the input member, etc. At least a portion of thedrive unit 60 may be provided in the first substrate unit 10 u. At leasta portion of the drive unit 60 may be included in the drive device ofthe display device. At least a portion of the drive device may beincluded in the drive unit 60.

An example of the drive element 71 and the control circuit unit 75 ofthe display device 110 will now be described.

FIG. 6 is a schematic view illustrating the display device according tothe first embodiment.

FIG. 6 illustrates a portion of the display device 110.

As illustrated in FIG. 6, the control circuit unit 75 is provided in theperipheral region 10P. The control circuit unit 75 includes a firstcircuit unit C01. The first circuit unit C01 includes third lineconnection lines LP3 and third line switches SWL3. The third lineconnection line LP3 is electrically connected to at least one of themultiple third lines L3 (e.g., the common lines CL). The third lineswitch SWL3 is electrically connected to the third line connection lineLP3.

In the example, the first circuit unit C01 further includes a displaycounter potential line COMI and a sense potential line

TSVI. The display counter potential line COMI and the sense potentialline TSVI are provided in the peripheral region 10P. The display counterpotential line COMI is set to a display counter potential VCOMDC. Thesense potential line TSVI is set to a sense potential TSVCOM. The sensepotential TSVCOM is a potential that is different from the displaycounter potential VCOMDC.

The display counter potential VCOMDC is, for example, 0 volts (e.g., theground potential) to −1 volts. This value is an example; and theembodiment is not limited to this value. The sense potential TSVCOM is 4volts to 10 volts. This value is an example; and the embodiment is notlimited to this value.

In the example, the third line switches SWL3 include a first potentialswitch SWV1 and a second potential switch SWV2.

One end of the first potential switch SWV1 is electrically connected tothe display counter potential line COMI. The other end of the firstpotential switch SWV1 is electrically connected to the third lineconnection line LP3. One end of the second potential switch SWV2 iselectrically connected to the sense potential line TSVI. The other endof the second potential switch SWV2 is electrically connected to thethird line connection line LP3.

For example, the potential of the third line connection line LP3connected to the third line L3 is set to one of the display counterpotential VCOMDC or the sense potential TSVCOM by the operations of thefirst potential switch SWV1 and the second potential switch SWV2.

In the example, the control circuit unit 75 further includes a thirdcircuit unit C03. The third circuit unit C03 is provided in theperipheral region 10P. The third circuit unit C03 controls the operationof the first potential switch SWV1 and the operation of the secondpotential switch SWV2 recited above. The third circuit unit C03includes, for example, a first shift register 311 and a second shiftregister 312. The outputs of the shift registers are supplied to thegate of the first potential switch SWV1 and the gate of the secondpotential switch SWV2 via a first control line SWGL1 and a secondcontrol line SWGL2, respectively. For example, buffer functions arebuilt into these shift registers.

At least a portion of the first circuit unit C01 is disposed between thedrive element 71 and the first substrate 10. In the example, at least aportion of the third circuit unit C03 also is disposed between the driveelement 71 and the first substrate 10. As described below, the functionof the third circuit unit C03 may be provided inside the drive element71.

In the example, the control circuit unit 75 further includes a secondcircuit unit C02 and the connection electrode 10 ca. The second circuitunit C02 and the connection electrode 10 ca are provided in theperipheral region 10P.

The connection electrode 10 ca is electrically connected to the driveelement 71. As described above, for example, the first connection member72 a is used as this connection. The output (the source output) of thedrive element 71 is supplied to the connection electrode 10 ca. Theconnection electrode 10 ca is, for example, a pad electrode.

The second circuit unit C02 includes second line switches SWL2 andsecond line connection lines LP2. One end of the second line switch SWL2is electrically connected to the connection electrode 10 ca. The otherend of the second line switch SWL2 is electrically connected to thesecond line connection line LP2. The second line connection line LP2electrically connects the other end of the second line switch SWL2 toone of the multiple second lines L2 (e.g., the signal lines SL).

In the example, the second line switches SWL2 include a first signalline switch SWI1 and a second signal line switch SWI2. For example, oneend of the first signal line switch SWI1 is electrically connected tothe signal line SL corresponding to the first color (e.g., red) via oneof the second line connection lines LP2. For example, one end of thesecond signal line switch SWI2 is electrically connected to the signalline SL corresponding to the second color (e.g., green) via one other ofthe second line connection lines LP2. Similarly, the signal line SL thatcorresponds to the third color (e.g., blue) is connected to the signalline switch via yet another one of the second line connection lines LP2.The electrical signals that are output from the drive element 71 aresupplied to the second lines L2 via the signal line switches (the secondline switches SWL2).

For example, the polarity of the electrical signal of the connectionelectrode 10 ca connected to the first signal line switch SWI1 is thereverse of the polarity of the electrical signal of the connectionelectrode 10 ca connected to the second signal line switch SWI2.

The drive element 71 supplies the electrical signal for the display toone of the second lines L2 (each of the second lines L2) via theconnection electrode 10 ca, the second line switch SWL2, and the secondline connection line LP2.

In the example, the second circuit unit C02 is not disposed between thedrive element 71 and the first substrate 10. In other words, the driveelement 71 and at least a portion of the second circuit unit C02 do notoverlap when projected onto the first surface 10 a of the firstsubstrate 10. In the example, the control circuit unit 75 furtherincludes a fourth circuit unit C04. For example, the fourth circuit unitC04 is provided in the peripheral region 10P. The fourth circuit unitC04 includes lines SWIt and fourth circuit switches SWC04. The linesSWIt are set to a prescribed potential. The lines SWIt include, forexample, lines TSIG1 to TSIG3, etc. One end of the fourth circuit switchSWC04 is electrically connected to the line SWIt set to the prescribedpotential recited above. The other end of the fourth circuit switchSWC04 is electrically connected to the drive element 71. Specifically,the other end of the fourth circuit switch SWC04 is electricallyconnected to the connection electrode 10 ca.

For example, at least a portion of the fourth circuit unit C04 isdisposed between the drive element 71 and the first substrate 10. Forexample, the fourth circuit unit C04 is used to test the display. Thefourth circuit unit C04 is provided as necessary and may be omitted.

The first circuit unit C01 is, for example, a common line switch block(COMSW block). The second circuit unit C02 is, for example, a signalline switch block. The third circuit unit C03 is, for example, a scannerblock. The fourth circuit unit C04 is a test switch block.

In the example, the first circuit unit C01 is disposed between thedisplay region 10D and the region of the third circuit unit C03 on thefirst surface 10 a. The fourth circuit unit C04 is disposed between thedisplay region 10D and the region of the first circuit unit C01. Thesecond circuit unit C02 is disposed between the display region 10D andthe region of the fourth circuit unit C04.

For example, the third line connection line LP3 passes through theregion of the fourth circuit unit C04 and the region of the secondcircuit unit C02 from the region of the first circuit unit C01 andextends to the display region 10D. The portion of the third lineconnection line LP3 positioned inside the region of the first circuitunit C01 and inside the region of the fourth circuit unit C04 includes,for example, Al. The width of this Al line is, for example, not lessthan 10 μm and not more than 50 μm, e.g., not less than 25 μm and notmore than 35 μm. The portion of the third line connection line LP3positioned inside the region of the second circuit unit C02 includes,for example, a metal layer (e.g., Al) of the third layer. The width ofthis metal layer is, for example, more than 50 μm but not more than 200μm, e.g., not less than 80 μm and not more than 120 μm.

For example, multiple connection electrodes 10 ca are provided. In theexample, one connection electrode 10 ca corresponds to two second linesL2 for the second line switches SWL2 (the first signal line switch SWI1and the second signal line switch SWI2).

The distance between some of the multiple connection electrodes 10 ca isset to a first spacing (a pad spacing). The distance between othermultiple connection electrodes 10 ca is set to a second spacing. Thesecond spacing is set to about 2 times (e.g., not less than 1.5 timesand not more than 2.5 times) the first spacing.

In other words, the third line connection line LP3 passes through one ofthe regions between the multiple connection electrodes 10 ca. Thespacing between the multiple connection electrodes 10 ca at the positionwhere the third line connection line LP3 passes through is set to thesecond spacing WP. The spacing between the multiple connectionelectrodes 10 ca is set to the first spacing in the portions of theregions between the multiple connection electrodes 10 ca where the thirdline connection line LP3 does not pass through.

Examples of operations of the display device 110 will now be described.

As described above, the drive unit 60 further includes the controller 63that is electrically connected to the control circuit unit 75 and thedrive element 71. The controller 63 causes the control circuit unit 75and the drive element 71 to implement a first operation and a secondoperation.

FIG. 6 illustrates the first operation OP1. The display device 110performs a display in the first operation OP1. For example, a displayperiod and a non-display period are provided.

The first operation OP1 is implemented in the display period. In thedisplay period of the first operation OP1, one of the multiple switchelements 11 that is connected to one of the multiple first lines L1 andone of the multiple second lines L2 are selected. The switch element 11that is selected is referred to as the selection switch element 11 s.The image potential is applied to the pixel electrode (the selectionpixel electrode Pxsl) of the multiple pixel electrodes Px electricallyconnected to the selection switch element 11 s. On the other hand, thedisplay counter potential VCOMDC is applied to at least one of themultiple third lines L3.

In other words, in the display period of the first operation OP1, theimage signal is supplied to the multiple second lines L2 while settingone of the multiple first lines L1 to the select potential.

As described in regard to FIG. 4, the selection pixel electrode Pxsl(the pixel electrode Px of the multiple pixel electrodes Px electricallyconnected to the selection switch element 11 s) is set to the imagepotential based on the image signal via the selection switch element 11s (the switch element 11 of the multiple switch elements 11 electricallyconnected to the first line L1 set to the select potential). At leastone of the multiple third lines L3 is set to the display counterpotential VCOMDC.

As illustrated in FIG. 6, in the first operation OP1, the firstpotential switches SWV1 are in the conducting state; and the secondpotential switches SWV2 are in the nonconducting state. Thereby, thethird lines L3 are set to the display counter potential VCOMDC.

The conducting state is a low resistance state. The nonconducting stateis a high resistance state. In a switch in the conducting state, acurrent is conductible between one end and the other end. In the switchin the nonconducting state, the current substantially does not flowbetween the one end and the other end.

On the other hand, in the example, at one time, the first signal lineswitches SWI1 are in the conducting state; and the second signal lineswitches SWI2 are in the nonconducting state. Thereby, for example, thewriting is performed to a red pixel and a green pixel. At another time(not shown), the first signal line switches SWI1 are switched to thenonconducting state;

and the second signal line switches SWI2 are switched to the conductingstate. Thereby, the writing is performed to a blue pixel and another redpixel.

As illustrated in FIG. 6, the fourth circuit switches SWC04 are in thenonconducting state in the first operation OP1.

Thus, the display is performed in the display device 110.

An example of the second operation will now be described.

FIG. 7 is a schematic view illustrating the display device according tothe first embodiment.

FIG. 7 illustrates the second operation OP2 of the display device 110.For example, the sensing of the touch input is performed in the secondoperation OP2. The second operation OP2 is implemented in thenon-display period.

As described above, in the second operation OP2, the current that flowsbetween at least one of the multiple fourth lines L4 and at least one ofthe multiple third lines L3 is sensed. In other words, the change of thecurrent is sensed based on the change of the capacitance between the atleast one of the multiple fourth lines L4 and the at least one of themultiple third lines L3 due to an object proximal to at least one of themultiple fourth lines L4.

For example, a high frequency signal is input to the third lines L3 (thecommon lines CL) in the selected state corresponding to the senseoperation. In the high frequency signal, the voltage is switchedalternately between the display counter potential VCOMDC and the sensepotential TSVCOM. For example, the operation is performed by the firstpotential switches SWV1 and the second potential switches SWV2. Theoperation is controlled by the third circuit unit C03 (e.g., the secondshift register 312 in the selected state). Using the high frequencysignal, the current that flows between the third lines L3 and the fourthlines L4 is sensed.

On the other hand, for example, the third lines L3 in the unselectedstate are set to the display counter potential VCOMDC or the sensepotential TSVCOM.

At this time, in the second operation OP2 as illustrated in FIG. 7, thesecond line switches SWL2 (e.g., the first signal line switch SWI1, thesecond signal line switch SWI2, etc.) are switched to the nonconductingstate. In other words, in the second operation OP2, the potential of atleast one of the multiple second lines L2 is set to a floatingpotential. Thereby, the capacitance formed between the second lines L2and the third lines L3 can be reduced. Thereby, in the second operationOP2, the speed of the change of the potential of the third lines L3 canbe increased.

In the embodiment, for example, at least a portion of the controlcircuit unit 75 is formed of a material included in the display unit DP.

For example, the switches (e.g., the third line switch SWL3, etc.) thatare included in the control circuit unit 75 include the same material asthe semiconductor layer 12 included in the switch element 11.

For example, the circuit units (e.g., the first circuit unit C01, etc.)include the same material as the metal layer included in at least one ofthe first to third lines L1 to L3. For example, at least a portion ofthe control circuit unit 75 may be formed together with the formation ofthe display unit DP. Thereby, the processes are simple.

FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B are schematic views illustrating another displaydevice according to the first embodiment. FIG. 8A is a schematicsee-through plan view illustrating the drive element 71 and the controlcircuit unit 75 of the display device 111 according to the embodiment.FIG. 8B is a schematic cross-sectional view corresponding to the lineA1-A2 cross section of FIG. 1A. As illustrated in FIG. 8A, the firstoutput electrode 71 a and the input electrode 71 i are provided in thedrive element 71. An electrode layer 71 e is further provided in theexample. The thickness of the electrode layer 71 e is, for example,substantially the same as the thickness of the first output electrode 71a and substantially the same as the thickness of the input electrode 71i.

As illustrated in FIG. 8B, the display device 111 further includes acontrol connection member 72 e. On the other hand, in the example, thefirst substrate unit 10 u further includes an electrode film 10 ce. Thecontrol connection member 72 e and the electrode film 10 ce are notshown in FIG. 8A.

The electrode film 10 ce is provided in the peripheral region 10P on thefirst substrate 10 (on the first surface 10 a). The control connectionmember 72 e is disposed between the electrode layer 71 e and theelectrode film 10 ce. In other words, the control connection member 72 eis disposed between the drive element 71 and the first substrate 10. Thecontrol connection member 72 e controls the distance between the driveelement 71 and the first substrate 10.

For example, an island bump is formed of at least one of the electrodelayer 71 e, the control connection member 72 e, or the electrode film 10ce. For example, the island bump may be set to the ground potential orthe floating potential.

The drive element 71 has a relatively large size. Strain occurs easilyin at least one of the drive element 71 or the first substrate 10. Astable connection can be ensured by using the control connection member72 e to control the distance between the drive element 71 and the firstsubstrate 10 to be constant. High reliability is obtained.

FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B are schematic views illustrating another displaydevice according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 9A is a schematic see-through plan view illustrating the driveelement 71 and the control circuit unit 75 of the display device 112according to the embodiment. FIG. 9B is a schematic cross-sectional viewcorresponding to the line A1-A2 cross section of FIG. 1A.

In addition to the first output electrode 71 a and the input electrode71 i, a second output electrode 71 b is provided in the drive element 71as illustrated in FIG. 9A. For example, the thickness of the secondoutput electrode 71 b is substantially the same as the thickness of thefirst output electrode 71 a and substantially the same as the thicknessof the input electrode 71 i. For example, the second output electrode 71b is capable of outputting the display counter potential VCOMDC.

As illustrated in FIG. 9B, the second output electrode 71 b is providedon the surface of the drive element 71 on the first substrate 10 side.

The display device 112 further includes a second connection member 72 b.The second connection member 72 b is disposed between the second outputelectrode 71 b and the display counter potential line COMI. The secondconnection member 72 b electrically connects the second output electrode71 b and the display counter potential line COMI.

In the example, the display counter potential VCOMDC is output from thesecond output electrode 71 b of the drive element 71. The displaycounter potential VCOMDC is supplied to the display counter potentialline COMI via the second connection member 72 b.

In the display device 111, the control connection member 72 e is used tocontrol the distance between the drive element 71 and the firstsubstrate 10. Conversely, in the display device 112, the secondconnection member 72 b is used as the supply path of the display counterpotential VCOMDC while controlling the distance between the driveelement 71 and the first substrate 10. In the display device 112, thesurface area of the peripheral region 10P can be reduced further. In thedisplay device 112, an island bump is used as the supply path of thedisplay counter potential VCOMDC. Thereby, for example, the size of theswitches included in the circuit units (e.g., the first circuit unitC01, the third circuit unit C03, etc.) can be increased. The impedanceof the switches can be reduced.

FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B are schematic views illustrating another displaydevice according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 10A is a schematic see-through plan view illustrating the driveelement 71 and the control circuit unit 75 of the display device 113according to the embodiment. FIG.

10B is a schematic cross-sectional view corresponding to the line A1-A2cross section of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 11 is a schematic view illustrating the display device according tothe first embodiment. FIG. 11 is a schematic plan view illustrating thedrive element 71 and the control circuit unit 75 of the display device113.

In the example, the drive element 71 functions as the third circuit unitC03. For example, the first shift register 311, the second shiftregister 312, etc., are provided inside the drive element 71.

As shown in FIG. 10A and FIG. 11, third output electrodes 71 c areprovided in the drive element 71. For example, an output 71 co is outputfrom the third output electrodes 71 c to the shift registers (the firstshift register 311, the second shift register 312, etc.). In otherwords, the third output electrodes 71 c output the control signals ofthe third line switches SWL3.

As illustrated in FIG. 10B, the display device 113 further includesthird connection members 72 c. The third output electrodes 71 c areprovided on the surface of the drive element 71 on the first substrate10 side.

The third connection member 72 c is disposed between the third outputelectrode 71 c and the first control line SWGL1 (or the second controlline SWGL2, etc.). The third connection member 72 c electricallyconnects the third output electrode 71 c and the first control lineSWGL1. In other words, the third connection member 72 c is providedbetween the third output electrode 71 c and the first substrate 10.

In the example, the control signals of the third line switches SWL3 (thefirst potential switch SWV1, the second potential switch SWV2, etc.) areoutput from the third output electrodes 71 c of the drive element 71.The control signals are supplied to the third line switches SWL3 via thethird connection member 72 c.

In the display device 113, the control pulse of the first circuit unitC01 is output from the island bump. In the display device 113, thesurface area of the peripheral region 10P can be reduced. Or, in thedisplay device 113, for example, the surface area of the region wherethe first circuit unit C01 is provided can be enlarged. For example, thesurface area of the switches provided in the first circuit unit C01 canbe enlarged; and the impedance of the switches can be reduced.

In the display device 113, for example, the control pulse of the firstcircuit unit C01 can be output from any bump. Thereby, any of the thirdlines L3 can be switched to the selected state. Thereby, for example,random access sensing is possible in the sense operation of the touchinput. Operations having higher efficiency are possible.

Second Embodiment

FIG. 12 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a portion of adisplay device according to a second embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 12, the color filter layer 25 and multiple fifth linesL5 are further provided in the display device 120 according to theembodiment. Otherwise, the configuration described in regard to thedisplay device 110 (or the display devices 111 to 113) is applicable.

The color filter layer 25 includes a red filter layer RF, a green filterlayer GF, and a blue filter layer BF.

The color filter layer 25 includes a first boundary portion p1, a secondboundary portion p2, and a third boundary portion p3. The first boundaryportion p1 is the boundary portion between the red filter layer RF andthe green filter layer GF. The second boundary portion p2 is theboundary portion between the green filter layer GF and the blue filterlayer BF. The third boundary portion p3 is the boundary portion betweenthe blue filter layer BF and the red filter layer RF.

The multiple fifth lines L5 extend in the second direction (e.g., theY-axis direction). Each of the multiple fifth lines L5 is electricallyconnected to one of the multiple third lines L3. The electricalresistance of each of the multiple fifth lines L5 is lower than theelectrical resistance of each of the multiple third lines L3. The fifthlines L5 are used as supplemental lines of the third lines L3.

As described above, a light-transmissive conductive material is used asthe third line L3. On the other hand, the fifth line L5 includes amaterial (a metal or the like) having a low resistance. Thereby, theeffective resistance of the third line L3 can be reduced. The occurrenceof crosstalk can be suppressed. For example, the decrease of the openingratio can be suppressed.

In the example, the multiple fifth lines L5 overlap the first boundaryportion p1 or the second boundary portion p2 when projected onto the X-Yplane. The fifth lines L5 and the third boundary portion p3 may notoverlap.

The transmittance of the fifth line L5 is relatively low. The fifth lineL5 functions as a light-shielding film. Because the visibility of greenis high, there is a possibility that light leakage may occur at thefirst boundary portion p1 and the second boundary portion p2. In such acase, the light leakage can be suppressed by providing the fifth linesL5 so that the fifth line L5 and the first boundary portion p1 overlap,and the fifth line L5 and the second boundary portion p2 overlap. Thedisplay quality increases. On the other hand, the light leakage issuppressed at the third boundary portion p3 which is the boundaryportion between red and blue which have low visibilities. Therefore, thefifth line L5 and the third boundary portion p3 may not overlap.

In the example, the third boundary portion p3 and at least one of gapsG3 between the multiple third lines L3 overlap when projected onto theX-Y plane. A uniform display is obtained easily by disposing the gap G3at the position of the third boundary portion p3 where the light leakageis low.

As illustrated in FIG. 12, a light-shielding layer 27 (e.g., a blackmatrix) may be further provided. When projected onto the X-Y plane, thelight-shielding layer 27 has a portion that overlaps the first boundaryportion p1, the second boundary portion p2, and the third boundaryportion p3. Thereby, the light leakage can be suppressed further; and ahigher-quality display is obtained.

The light-shielding layer 27 includes chrome, a chromic compound, etc. Ablack resin may be used as the light-shielding layer 27. A stacked filmin which two or more of the red filter layer RF, the green filter layerGF, or the blue filter layer BF are stacked may be used as thelight-shielding layer 27.

The configuration and operations described in regard to the firstembodiment may be combined with the second embodiment.

Third Embodiment

FIG. 13 is a schematic perspective view illustrating an electronicdevice according to a third embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 13, an electronic device 510 according to theembodiment includes the display device 110. The display devices and themodifications of the display devices described in regard to the firstand second embodiments may be used as the display device. In theexample, the electronic device 510 further includes a housing 580 havingan interior in which the display device 110 is contained. For example, amobile telephone, a personal digital assistant, a personal computer,various information devices, etc., are used as the electronic device510.

In the electronic device 510 according to the embodiment, a compactelectronic device can be provided by using the display devices accordingto the first and second embodiments.

According to the embodiment, a compact display device can be provided.

In the specification of the application, “perpendicular” and “parallel”include not only strictly perpendicular and strictly parallel but also,for example, the fluctuation due to manufacturing processes, etc.; andit is sufficient to be substantially perpendicular and substantiallyparallel.

Hereinabove, embodiments of the invention are described with referenceto specific examples. However, the invention is not limited to thesespecific examples. For example, one skilled in the art may similarlypractice the invention by appropriately selecting specificconfigurations of components included in the display device such as theline, the switch element, the display function layer, the insulatinglayer, the drive unit, the switch, the selector, the circuit, etc., fromknown art; and such practice is within the scope of the invention to theextent that similar effects can be obtained.

Further, any two or more components of the specific examples may becombined within the extent of technical feasibility and are within thescope of the invention to the extent that the spirit of the invention isincluded.

All display devices practicable by an appropriate design modification byone skilled in the art based on the display devices described above asembodiments of the invention are within the scope of the invention tothe extent that the spirit of the invention is included.

Various modifications and alterations within the spirit of the inventionwill be readily apparent to those skilled in the art;

and all such modifications and alterations should be seen as beingwithin the scope of the invention.

For example, additions, deletions, or design modifications of componentsor additions, omissions, or condition modifications of processesappropriately made by one skilled in the art in regard to theembodiments described above are within the scope of the invention to theextent that the spirit of the invention is included.

Other effects produced by the forms described in the embodiment that areapparent from the specification or readily apparent to one skilled inthe art naturally should be seen as being within the scope of theinvention.

(1) An embodiment of the disclosed invention is a display deviceincluding:

a first substrate unit including

-   -   a first substrate having a first surface including a display        region and a peripheral region,    -   a display unit provided in the display region, the display unit        including        -   multiple first lines extending in a first direction and            being arranged in a second direction intersecting the first            direction, the first direction intersecting a direction from            the peripheral region toward the display region,        -   multiple second lines extending in the second direction and            being arranged in the first direction,        -   multiple switch elements, each of the multiple switch            elements being electrically connected to one of the multiple            first lines and one of the multiple second lines,        -   multiple pixel electrodes electrically connected            respectively to the multiple switch elements, and        -   multiple third lines extending in the second direction and            being arranged in the first direction, and    -   a control circuit unit provided in the peripheral region, the        control circuit unit including a first circuit unit, the first        circuit unit including        -   a third line connection line electrically connected to at            least one of the multiple third lines, and        -   a third line switch electrically connected to the third line            connection line;

a second substrate unit including

-   -   a second substrate having a second surface and a third surface,        the second surface opposing the first surface, the third surface        being on a side opposite to the second surface, and    -   multiple fourth lines provided at the third surface, the        multiple fourth lines extending in a third direction and being        arranged in a fourth direction, the third direction being        parallel to the third surface and intersecting the second        direction, the fourth direction being parallel to the third        surface and intersecting the third direction;

a display function layer provided between the first substrate unit andthe second substrate unit, the display function layer performing anoptical operation based on an electrical signal applied to the multiplepixel electrodes; and

a drive element provided on the peripheral region, the drive elementbeing capable of outputting the electrical signal,

at least a portion of the first circuit unit being disposed between thedrive element and the first substrate.

(2) An embodiment of the disclosed invention is the display deviceaccording to (1), wherein

the control circuit unit further includes a second circuit unit and aconnection electrode,

the connection electrode is electrically connected to the drive element,

the second circuit unit includes:

-   -   a second line switch having one end electrically connected to        the connection electrode; and    -   a second line connection line electrically connecting one other        end of the second line switch and one of the multiple second        lines, and

the drive element supplies the electrical signal to the one of thesecond lines via the connection electrode, the second line switch, andthe second line connection line.

(3) An embodiment of the disclosed invention is the display deviceaccording to (2), wherein the drive element and at least a portion ofthe second circuit unit do not overlap when projected onto the firstsurface.

(4) An embodiment of the disclosed invention is the display deviceaccording to (2) or (3), wherein

the first circuit unit further includes:

-   -   a display counter potential line provided in the peripheral        region, the display counter potential line being set to a        display counter potential; and    -   a sense potential line provided in the peripheral region, the        sense potential line being set to a sense potential different        from the display counter potential, and

the third line switch includes:

-   -   a first potential switch having one end electrically connected        to the display counter potential line and one other end        electrically connected to the third line connection line; and    -   a second potential switch having one end electrically connected        to the sense potential line and one other end electrically        connected to the third line connection line.

(5) An embodiment of the disclosed invention is the display deviceaccording to (3) or (4), further including a first connection member,

the drive element including a first output electrode provided at asurface of the drive element on the first substrate side, the firstoutput electrode outputting the electrical signal,

the first connection member being disposed between the first outputelectrode and the connection electrode and electrically connecting thefirst output electrode and the connection electrode.

(6) An embodiment of the disclosed invention is the display deviceaccording to (4) or (5), further including a second connection member,

the drive element including a second output electrode provided at asurface of the drive element on the first substrate side, the secondoutput electrode outputting the display counter potential,

the second connection member being disposed between the second outputelectrode and the display counter potential line and electricallyconnecting the second output electrode and the display counter potentialline.

(7) An embodiment of the disclosed invention is the display deviceaccording to (4) or (5), further including a third connection member,

the drive element including a third output electrode provided at asurface of the drive element on the first substrate side, the thirdoutput electrode outputting a control signal of the third line switch,

the third connection member being provided between the third outputelectrode and the first substrate, the control signal being supplied tothe third line switch via the third connection member.

(8) An embodiment of the disclosed invention is the display deviceaccording to any one of (4) to (7), including a control connectionmember disposed between the drive element and the first substrate, thecontrol connection member controlling a distance between the driveelement and the first substrate.

(9) An embodiment of the disclosed invention is the display deviceaccording to any one of (4) to (8), wherein

the control circuit unit further includes a fourth circuit unit, and

the fourth circuit unit includes:

-   -   an line settable to a prescribed potential; and    -   a fourth circuit switch, one end of the fourth circuit switch        being electrically connected to the line settable to the        prescribed potential, one other end of the fourth circuit switch        being electrically connected to the drive element.

(10) An embodiment of the disclosed invention is the display deviceaccording to any one of (4) to (9), further including a controllerelectrically connected to the control circuit unit and the driveelement,

the controller causing the control circuit unit and the drive element toimplement a first operation,

the first operation including, in a display period:

-   -   selecting one of the multiple switch elements, the one of the        multiple switch elements being connected to one of the multiple        first lines and one of the multiple second lines;    -   applying an image potential to a pixel electrode of the multiple        pixel electrodes electrically connected to the selected switch        element; and    -   applying a display counter potential to at least one of the        multiple third lines.

(11) An embodiment of the disclosed invention is the display deviceaccording to (10), wherein

the controller further causes the control circuit unit and the driveelement to implement a second operation, and

in the second operation, in a non-display period, a potential of atleast one of the multiple second lines is set to a floating potential.

(12) An embodiment of the disclosed invention is the display deviceaccording to (11), including a sensor sensing, in the second operation,a change of a capacitance formed between at least one of the multiplefourth lines and at least one of the multiple third lines.

(13) An embodiment of the disclosed invention is the display deviceaccording to any one of (1) to (12), further including:

a color filter layer including a red filter layer, a green filter layer,and a blue filter layer; and

multiple fifth lines extending in the second direction,

the color filter layer including a first boundary portion between thered filter layer and the green filter layer, a second boundary portionbetween the green filter layer and the blue filter layer, and a thirdboundary portion between the blue filter layer and the red filter layer,

each of the multiple fifth lines being electrically connected to one ofthe multiple third lines,

an electrical resistance of each of the multiple fifth lines being lowerthan an electrical resistance of each of the multiple third lines,

the multiple fifth lines overlapping the first boundary portion or thesecond boundary portion and not overlapping the third boundary portionwhen projected onto a plane including the first direction and the seconddirection.

(14) An embodiment of the disclosed invention is the display deviceaccording to (13), wherein the third boundary portion and at least oneof gaps between the multiple third lines overlap when projected onto theplane including the first direction and the second direction.

(15) An embodiment of the disclosed invention is the display deviceaccording to any one of (1) to (12), further including a color filterlayer including a red filter layer, a green filter layer, and a bluefilter layer,

the color filter layer including a first boundary portion between thered filter layer and the green filter layer, a second boundary portionbetween the green filter layer and the blue filter layer, and a thirdboundary portion between the blue filter layer and the red filter layer,

the third boundary portion and at least one of gaps between the multiplethird lines overlapping when projected onto the plane including thefirst direction and the second direction.

What is claimed is:
 1. A display device, comprising: a first substrateunit including a first substrate having a first surface including adisplay region and a peripheral region, a display unit provided in thedisplay region, the display unit including a plurality of first linesextending in a first direction and being arranged in a second directionintersecting the first direction, the first direction intersecting adirection from the peripheral region toward the display region, aplurality of second lines extending in the second direction and beingarranged in the first direction, a plurality of switch elements, each ofthe plurality of switch elements being electrically connected to one ofthe plurality of first lines and one of the plurality of second lines, aplurality of pixel electrodes electrically connected respectively to theplurality of switch elements, and a plurality of third lines extendingin the second direction and being arranged in the first direction, and acontrol circuit unit provided in the peripheral region, the controlcircuit unit including a first circuit unit, the first circuit unitincluding a third line connection line electrically connected to atleast one of the plurality of third lines, and a third line switchelectrically connected to the third line connection line; a secondsubstrate unit including a second substrate having a second surface anda third surface, the second surface opposing the first surface, thethird surface being on a side opposite to the second surface, and aplurality of fourth lines provided at the third surface, the pluralityof fourth lines extending in a third direction and being arranged in afourth direction, the third direction being parallel to the thirdsurface and intersecting the second direction, the fourth directionbeing parallel to the third surface and intersecting the thirddirection; a display function layer provided between the first substrateunit and the second substrate unit, the display function layerperforming an optical operation based on an electrical signal applied tothe plurality of pixel electrodes; and a drive element provided on theperipheral region, the drive element being capable of outputting theelectrical signal, at least a portion of the first circuit unit beingdisposed between the drive element and the first substrate.
 2. Thedisplay device according to claim 1, wherein the control circuit unitfurther includes a second circuit unit and a connection electrode, theconnection electrode is electrically connected to the drive element, thesecond circuit unit includes: a second line switch having one endelectrically connected to the connection electrode; and a second lineconnection line electrically connecting one other end of the second lineswitch and one of the plurality of second lines, and the drive elementsupplies the electrical signal to the one of the second lines via theconnection electrode, the second line switch, and the second lineconnection line.
 3. The display device according to claim 2, wherein thedrive element and at least a portion of the second circuit unit do notoverlap when projected onto the first surface.
 4. The display deviceaccording to claim 2, wherein the first circuit unit further includes: adisplay counter potential line provided in the peripheral region and setto a display counter potential; and a sense potential line provided inthe peripheral region and set to a sense potential different from thedisplay counter potential, and the third line switch includes: a firstpotential switch having one end and one other end, the one end beingelectrically connected to the display counter potential line, the oneother end being electrically connected to the third line connectionline; and a second potential switch having one end and one other end,the one end being electrically connected to the sense potential line,the one other end being electrically connected to the third lineconnection line.
 5. The display device according to claim 3, furthercomprising a first connection member, the drive element including afirst output electrode provided at a surface of the drive element on thefirst substrate side, the first output electrode outputting theelectrical signal, the first connection member being disposed betweenthe first output electrode and the connection electrode and electricallyconnecting the first output electrode and the connection electrode. 6.The display device according to claim 4, further comprising a secondconnection member, the drive element including a second output electrodeprovided on a surface of the drive element on the first substrate side,the second output electrode outputting the display counter potential,the second connection member being disposed between the second outputelectrode and the display counter potential line and electricallyconnecting the second output electrode and the display counter potentialline.
 7. The display device according to claim 4, further comprising athird connection member, the drive element including a third outputelectrode provided on a surface of the drive element on the firstsubstrate side, the third output electrode outputting a control signalof the third line switch, the third connection member being providedbetween the third output electrode and the first substrate, the controlsignal being supplied to the third line switch via the third connectionmember.
 8. The display device according to claim 4, including a controlconnection member disposed between the drive element and the firstsubstrate, the control connection member controlling a distance betweenthe drive element and the first substrate.
 9. The display deviceaccording to claim 4, wherein the control circuit unit further includesa fourth circuit unit, and the fourth circuit unit includes: an linesettable to a prescribed potential, and a fourth circuit switch havingone end and one other end, the one end being electrically connected tothe line settable to the prescribed potential, the one other end beingelectrically connected to the drive element.
 10. The display deviceaccording to claim 4, further comprising a controller electricallyconnected to the control circuit unit and the drive element, thecontroller causing the control circuit unit and the drive element toimplement a first operation, the first operation including, in a displayperiod, selecting one of the plurality of switch elements, the one ofthe plurality of switch elements being connected to one of the pluralityof first lines and one of the plurality of second lines, applying animage potential to a pixel electrode of the plurality of pixelelectrodes electrically connected to the selected switch element, andapplying the display counter potential to at least one of the pluralityof third lines.
 11. The display device according to claim 10, whereinthe controller further causes the control circuit unit and the driveelement to implement a second operation, the second operation, in anon-display period, a potential of at least one of the plurality ofsecond lines is set to a floating potential.
 12. The display deviceaccording to claim 11, comprising a sensor sensing, in the secondoperation, a change of a capacitance formed between at least one of theplurality of fourth lines and at least one of the plurality of thirdlines.
 13. The display device according to claim 1, further comprising:a color filter layer including a red filter layer, a green filter layer,and a blue filter layer; and a plurality of fifth lines extending in thesecond direction, the color filter layer including a first boundaryportion between the red filter layer and the green filter layer, asecond boundary portion between the green filter layer and the bluefilter layer, and a third boundary portion between the blue filter layerand the red filter layer, each of the plurality of fifth lines beingelectrically connected to one of the plurality of third lines, anelectrical resistance of each of the plurality of fifth lines beinglower than an electrical resistance of each of the plurality of thirdlines, the plurality of fifth lines overlapping the first boundaryportion or the second boundary portion and not overlapping the thirdboundary portion when projected onto a plane including the firstdirection and the second direction.
 14. The display device according toclaim 13, wherein the third boundary portion and at least one of gapsbetween the plurality of third lines overlap when projected onto theplane including the first direction and the second direction.
 15. Thedisplay device according to claim 1, further comprising a color filterlayer including a red filter layer, a green filter layer, and a bluefilter layer, the color filter layer including a first boundary portionbetween the red filter layer and the green filter layer, a secondboundary portion between the green filter layer and the blue filterlayer, and a third boundary portion between the blue filter layer andthe red filter layer, the third boundary portion and at least one ofgaps between the plurality of third lines overlapping when projectedonto a plane including the first direction and the second direction.